About this quote

Look for the usefulness hiding inside the parts of you you want to fix. Some faults are tangled up with the traits that give you edge, voice, or drive. Ask which changes will actually cost you something important, then try smaller edits first and watch what else shifts. If a cut takes more than it gives, keep the strength and limit the harm instead of chasing perfect purity.

When to use it

• Work — During my performance review I said, "I know I'm blunt and it ruffles people, but if I got rid of my demons I'd lose my angels," meaning my directness finishes projects.
• Writing — At a book reading my editor called my tone dark; I told the audience, "If I got rid of my demons, I'd lose my angels," to explain why I won't water down the voice.
• Sports — After a coach warned me about penalties I replied, "I can't dial out all the aggression — if I got rid of my demons, I'd lose my angels," because that fire wins games.
• Sales/Money — When a colleague said I'm too risky, I said, "I've burned cash before, but if I got rid of my demons I'd lose my angels," to explain where my bold deals come from.